Laser and water jet cutting are two of the fastest and most accurate ways of computer numerical controlled (CNC) cutting in the sheet metal fabrication industry. Both of these cutting tools offer precision and flexibility, minimize waste and so are easily programmable with CAD/CAM or nesting software.
Both laser and water jet cutters have distinct advantages over a number of the more traditional cutting methods. They can be used with various materials besides sheet metal, such as for example marble, glass, plastics and acrylic. Also, they are a lot more efficient than traditional machine tool cutting with regards to smaller orders that might be more specialized or require more detail.
Laser Cutting
Fabrication software allows a programmer to input information which will direct a cutting tool to go along a design path with the goal of cutting out a bit or part exactly as it was used. There is no better tool for executing the complete cutting of a programmed pattern than a laser cutting machine. When combined with quality CNC laser software, lasers can perform very detailed cutting functions that include holes, slots and complex design patterns.
However, laser machines do have their limitations. When using a laser cutter, the more wattage the deeper the cutting ability. more info are really quick and accurate when used to cut thinner metals. But when thicker metal is used, "heat zones" can form that will sometimes melt more sensitive metals or cause unevenness or rough spots in the material.
Therefore, laser cutting thicker metals is impractical not merely because of possible damage to the material, but since it is more costly. If heat zones or hot spots occur from overexposing the metal to the laser, extra work such as grinding the part may become necessary. This can increase labor and material expenses, in addition to the higher costs connected with more energy usage.
Water Jet Cutting
Although not as precise as laser cutting, water jet cutting is able to cut thicker material without causing damage. Considered an "abrasive" process, water jet cutting uses an abrasive material coupled with water in an extremely concentrated stream to "erode" or breakdown the material being cut.
Though there may still be some sanding or finishing involved after processing a piece, water jetting tools are a lot more acceptable to be used with thicker materials along with the ones that are sensitive and susceptible to damage under extreme heat.
However, precautions must also be studied when cutting metal with a water jet tool. The material must be dried right away after cutting in order to avoid rusting. Also, since a cut from a water jet machine isn't as even or clean as when using a laser, the edges of the cut usually must be sanded or grinded. The piece should be "finished" as a way to smooth it out and ensure it is ready for possible welding.
Overall, both water jet cutting and laser cutting have their advantages. Water jet cutting is often less expensive, but that also can depend on how big is the work and the thickness of the material being used. When used on thinner, more detailed parts from sheet metal, a variety of top-line fabrication software and a good laser cutting machine may be the optimal scenario for producing quality parts at a fast rate.